02.09.03
More jobs expected as second phase of St Columb development begins

Work has begun today (September 2nd) on site clearance to make way for building work on the second phase of a major industrial development at St Columb Major.

The development – being carried out by the South West Regional Development Agency – is expected to create around 100 jobs.

The first phase of development at the St Columb Major Business Park saw a 50,000 sq ft factory unit taken over by global books, music and video retailer Borders (UK) Ltd in early 2002 – now employing around 100 people.

The second phase of work on the RDA development will see South West based company Midas Construction building two semi-detached 20,000 sq ft units that will be marketed to companies looking for new premises in Cornwall. The work is expected to be finished by April of next year.

The South West RDA's Regeneration Manager, Robert McGuffie, said the two phases of work at St Columb Major involved a total investment of more than £5.8 million by the RDA – with £1.7 million in investment from Objective One through the European Regional Development Fund.

He said: "This is a speculative development but we're confident of attracting new occupants for the units because we know there is demand for quality workspace of this size from Cornish companies looking to expand – which frees up premises elsewhere – and from potential inward investors.

"The units can either be let separately or be combined into one large 40,000 sq ft facility, so that will give us flexibility when we market the new development. The site is located close to the A30, so it has good transport links, and is in the Newquay, Bude and Camelford travel to work areas, so there is a local labour force available to any new occupants.”

Carol Wells, the Mayor of St Columb and a member of the Objective One Business Task Force oversaw the site clearing work today and took to the controls of the digger to mark the occasion. She said: "This new development will create around 100 much needed jobs in an area that has comparatively high unemployment, so I'm delighted that work is underway. The investment from Objective One is part of our remit to provide quality workspace for local businesses and inward investors, creating sustainable full-time jobs for local people.”

Graham Mathews, Director of Midas Construction's St Austell office said: "We're delighted to be involved in the on-going regeneration of the county and to continue our on-going partnership with the South West RDA. In addition to potential new jobs for end-users, the contract will also create local construction jobs - continuing the boom for the industry in Cornwall.”

Editor's notes:

The South West Regional Development Agency was established in 1999. Our most important role is to ensure the long-term economic success of the region, by promoting the right skills among its workforce, the most innovative businesses, and a high quality environment

Jason Clark
Communications Manager
Objective One Partnership Office
Castle House
Pydar Street
Truro TR1 2UD
Tel: 01872 241379
Fax: 01872 241388
jason@dclark.co.uk

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